1
Kiki Gyan - Disco Dancer
2
Kiki Gyan - 24 Hours In A Disco
3
Kiki Gyan - Keep On Dancing
4
K G Band - Loving You
5
The Twins - Pretty Pretty Girls
6
Kiki Gyan - Sexy Dancer
7
K G Band - Disco Train
2021 repress.
Out on his own, he produced a series of highly ambitious disco records aimed at positioning him as an international star, but weighed down by the excesses of the era, Gyan saw his meteoric rise matched by an equally swift fall back into obscurity. Soundway Records now collects the best of Gyan�s work as a frontman and solo artist, featuring an array of electrifying disco grooves that still sound contemporary (and in some cases futuristic) decades after their initial release. Tip!
Hailed as Africa's answer to Stevie Wonder, Ghanaian multi-instrumentalist Kiki Gyan was a musical wunderkind who by 1975 had risen from the lowly status of high school dropout to being ranked eighth in a poll of the greatest keyboardists in the world (occupying the rarefied air of the top ten with heavyweights like Steve Winwood, Billy Preston, and Stevie Wonder) as well as becoming an in-demand session player in the top recording studios of London - all before his twenty-first birthday. More
Out on his own, he produced a series of highly ambitious disco records aimed at positioning him as an international star, but weighed down by the excesses of the era, Gyan saw his meteoric rise matched by an equally swift fall back into obscurity. Soundway Records now collects the best of Gyan�s work as a frontman and solo artist, featuring an array of electrifying disco grooves that still sound contemporary (and in some cases futuristic) decades after their initial release. Tip!
Hailed as Africa's answer to Stevie Wonder, Ghanaian multi-instrumentalist Kiki Gyan was a musical wunderkind who by 1975 had risen from the lowly status of high school dropout to being ranked eighth in a poll of the greatest keyboardists in the world (occupying the rarefied air of the top ten with heavyweights like Steve Winwood, Billy Preston, and Stevie Wonder) as well as becoming an in-demand session player in the top recording studios of London - all before his twenty-first birthday. More
More records from Soundway Records
1
Ozzobia - Ndi Oma
2
Sammy Obot - Edue Ukot Akpa Itong
3
Eppi Fanio - Farofa Dancer
4
Etiene T. Boy - Jealousy
5
Pal Sagie - Esan
6
Ayo Manuel - Do Good (Dub)
7
Chimex G. Udensity And His Afrikan Band - Okpoko Na Azo Eze
8
I.S.C.A.C. Band - Igbo Nwe Egwu
9
Jeje - Jeje
10
Dizzy K - Omoge
11
Blackman Akeeb Kareem - Oya A (Eje Kajo)
12
Mannix Okonkwo - Ka Nyi Gbaa Egwu
13
Jimi Solanke - Owo Orisa - Ancestral Respects
14
Feladey - Experience
15
Soki Ohale - Wumaya Awuma
16
Jap Band & Feladey - Japadodo
17
Sonny Okosun - Highlife (Dub)
18
B.G. and Fibre - (G#) Thanks And Praises
19
Wura Fadaka Band - Eyo
Soundway Records presents a collection of Nigerian music chronicling a time when drum machines, synthesisers, imported pop, reggae, disco and soul collided with highlife, juju and cultural music.
The late 70s saw a period of political turbulence and prompted change across the country. Following suit, musicians and producers entered a period of experimentation, adaptation, modification and innovation, using new technology to renew and refresh cultural traditions. Nigerians formed their own unique approach to the limitless creativity these new instruments offered, to reveal a distinct sound which would dominate local airwaves for the decade to come. Nigeria Special Volume 3 celebrates the rich diversity of culture and musical styles of the nation, showcasing eighteen tracks across various genres which laid foundations for the innovation of Afrobeats artists of today.
Triple Vinyl gatefold LP compiled by Miles Cleret and Jeremy Spellacey, includes a large 8 page booklet with detailed liner notes, record scans and never-seen-before photos. More
The late 70s saw a period of political turbulence and prompted change across the country. Following suit, musicians and producers entered a period of experimentation, adaptation, modification and innovation, using new technology to renew and refresh cultural traditions. Nigerians formed their own unique approach to the limitless creativity these new instruments offered, to reveal a distinct sound which would dominate local airwaves for the decade to come. Nigeria Special Volume 3 celebrates the rich diversity of culture and musical styles of the nation, showcasing eighteen tracks across various genres which laid foundations for the innovation of Afrobeats artists of today.
Triple Vinyl gatefold LP compiled by Miles Cleret and Jeremy Spellacey, includes a large 8 page booklet with detailed liner notes, record scans and never-seen-before photos. More
1
Fatimah Razak - Dahaga
2
Black Brothers - Mangge Mangge
3
Marini & The Steps - Kuingin Dekatmu
4
Tian Niu - Deng Ni Zai Yu Zhong
5
The Rollies - Disco
6
Regalado - Pinoy Funk
7
John Philips & The Steps - Ayo Ke Disco
8
Aria Yunior - Salah Tingkah
9
Ahmadi Hassan - Habibi (Mari Bersatu)
10
Pongsri Woranuch - Aew...Phu Chai
Soundway Records delivers an exciting new compilation, diving ever deeper into South-East Asia. Ayo Ke Disco celebrates the musical identities emerging during the 1970s and 80s from the newly independent countries nestled around the South China Sea.
This time, Soundway’s long-time general manager Alice Whittington (aka DJ Norsicaa) steps into the limelight, embracing her Malaysian heritage and selecting music from her heavy collection of Asian records. Aside from steering the label, she is often found on international stages and radio stations playing an eclectic array of music.
For Ayo Ke Disco (meaning ‘Let’s go to the disco’ in Indonesian), 10 rare tracks of disco-funk, psychedelic funk, synth, city pop, and Hindustani-Arabic rhythms were painstakingly licensed from local labels – forming a snapshot of the vibrant discotheques and live scenes across Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong and the Philippines.
The vinyl release is also accompanied by the Ayo Ke Disco zine from Norsicaa, with extensive research on the history of music in South-East Asia, archival photos and exclusive interviews with some of the region’s most respected collectors. More
This time, Soundway’s long-time general manager Alice Whittington (aka DJ Norsicaa) steps into the limelight, embracing her Malaysian heritage and selecting music from her heavy collection of Asian records. Aside from steering the label, she is often found on international stages and radio stations playing an eclectic array of music.
For Ayo Ke Disco (meaning ‘Let’s go to the disco’ in Indonesian), 10 rare tracks of disco-funk, psychedelic funk, synth, city pop, and Hindustani-Arabic rhythms were painstakingly licensed from local labels – forming a snapshot of the vibrant discotheques and live scenes across Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong and the Philippines.
The vinyl release is also accompanied by the Ayo Ke Disco zine from Norsicaa, with extensive research on the history of music in South-East Asia, archival photos and exclusive interviews with some of the region’s most respected collectors. More
1
Dar Disku - Leil
2
Dar Disku - Alsutur Ft. FLANAH
3
Dar Disku - Sabir Ft. Billur Battal
4
Dar Disku - Ddayli Ft. Yacine El Khaldi
5
Dar Disku - Baar Baar Ft. Asha Puthli
6
Dar Disku - Ya Nas
7
Dar Disku - Galbi Ft. Aymen Attia
8
Dar Disku - Fajr
Preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UH275gX4auQ
The debut album from Bahraini-born, British-based musical duo Dar Disku is a celebration of their Arabic heritage and multicultural influences that melds golden age West Asian and North African sounds with a contemporary dance floor focus. Recorded between the UK, Algeria, Turkey and Tunisia, the album seamlessly crosses from disco to Raï, piano house to Turkish psychedelia, ambient to Bollywood and features guest artists from Algeria, Turkey and Bahrain as well as legendary Indian singer Asha Puthli.
Dar Disku is the innovative duo of Mazen Almaskati and Vish M, known for their dynamic DJ sets and eclectic mixes, into which they bring a deep-rooted passion for the rich musical traditions of the SWANA region (South West Asia and North Africa).
The self-titled album is a culmination of years of learning, listening, and creating. It serves as a transportive portal into the duo's expansive world beyond the dance floor, capturing the cosmic emotions of cinema through a meticulous analog approach to live recordings. It channels a wide range of influences, including Egyptian folk, Turkish psych, Algerian rai, Sudanese funk, Ethiopian jazz, and Khaleeji disco.
“Sonically we have tried to capture what time traveling with Dar Disku through our different influences would feel like,” they say of their recording process, “and although inspired directly some of our favourite hidden gems from the past, the sound of this record remains unmistakably rooted in our present day where current influences from electronic genres, hip hop, jazz and psychedelia also shine through.”
The pair explain that they learnt much of this through their own previously released edits of middle eastern music “which inspired us to create our own brand new original songs that draw from a similar breath. We've been able to combine this with our contemporary inspirations and bring to life something that is comfortingly nostalgic and yet refreshingly new.”
Vish and Maz have put immense effort into researching the songwriting and recording methods of the decades they draw inspiration from - utilising vintage consoles, analog synthesisers, and carefully crafted sonic spaces. This dedication is evident in every track, which combines their contemporary influences with the rich musical traditions of the region to create something that feels both timeless and innovative. More
The debut album from Bahraini-born, British-based musical duo Dar Disku is a celebration of their Arabic heritage and multicultural influences that melds golden age West Asian and North African sounds with a contemporary dance floor focus. Recorded between the UK, Algeria, Turkey and Tunisia, the album seamlessly crosses from disco to Raï, piano house to Turkish psychedelia, ambient to Bollywood and features guest artists from Algeria, Turkey and Bahrain as well as legendary Indian singer Asha Puthli.
Dar Disku is the innovative duo of Mazen Almaskati and Vish M, known for their dynamic DJ sets and eclectic mixes, into which they bring a deep-rooted passion for the rich musical traditions of the SWANA region (South West Asia and North Africa).
The self-titled album is a culmination of years of learning, listening, and creating. It serves as a transportive portal into the duo's expansive world beyond the dance floor, capturing the cosmic emotions of cinema through a meticulous analog approach to live recordings. It channels a wide range of influences, including Egyptian folk, Turkish psych, Algerian rai, Sudanese funk, Ethiopian jazz, and Khaleeji disco.
“Sonically we have tried to capture what time traveling with Dar Disku through our different influences would feel like,” they say of their recording process, “and although inspired directly some of our favourite hidden gems from the past, the sound of this record remains unmistakably rooted in our present day where current influences from electronic genres, hip hop, jazz and psychedelia also shine through.”
The pair explain that they learnt much of this through their own previously released edits of middle eastern music “which inspired us to create our own brand new original songs that draw from a similar breath. We've been able to combine this with our contemporary inspirations and bring to life something that is comfortingly nostalgic and yet refreshingly new.”
Vish and Maz have put immense effort into researching the songwriting and recording methods of the decades they draw inspiration from - utilising vintage consoles, analog synthesisers, and carefully crafted sonic spaces. This dedication is evident in every track, which combines their contemporary influences with the rich musical traditions of the region to create something that feels both timeless and innovative. More
Following on from his previous debut album Tape 1/Tape 2 on Soundway, Felbm delivers Tape 3/Tape 4: an intimate, emotional, lilting and melodic solo project. These 14 lo-fi, instrumental, jazz-infused sketches were written on guitar, with cascading keyboards, vibraphone and drum machine. Possessing a restorative and soothing quality, it goes some way to balancing out a chaotic year for the world at large. With echoes of the dreamier end of 1980s English indie-pop, minimal ambient music and Brazilian bossa-nova, Topper"s musical storybook includes touches of The Durutti Column, hints of Antônio Carlos Jobim and Baden Powell, whilst all set firmly in the summer fields of Germany and the Netherlands. The recording method used for the creation and recording of Tape 3 and Tape 4 follows the same as his previous release: all sketches were initially recorded onto cassette on a 4-track tape machine. Most notably a vibraphone finds its way onto almost every track fitting Topper"s sound-palette perfectly: warm yet distinctive, a percussive as well as sustaining sound that evokes some melancholy and a certain timeless nostalgia. Features that most certainly also apply to the other "new" instrument on the tapes: mellotron flutes. Tape 3/Tape 4 navigates the space between quiet, open, meditative tunes and more solid instrumental works, reflecting his constant search for an optimal balance between stillness and movement.
Tracklist
1.1Filatelie
1.2Tartufai
1.3Tiquetonne
1.4Veluwe
1.5Herausweh
1.6Talmen
1.7Heisei
1.8Brunnengasse
1.9Colorists
1.10Langeweile
1.11Beaufort
1.12Somnambulant
1.13Regtur
1.14Midori More
Tracklist
1.1Filatelie
1.2Tartufai
1.3Tiquetonne
1.4Veluwe
1.5Herausweh
1.6Talmen
1.7Heisei
1.8Brunnengasse
1.9Colorists
1.10Langeweile
1.11Beaufort
1.12Somnambulant
1.13Regtur
1.14Midori More
1
Papillon - Moulongo (Vocal)
2
Papillon - Moulongo (Dub)
3
Papillon - Moulongo (Poirier Dub)
Soundway presents Ferdinand ‘Maréchal’ Papillon’s underground club classic Moulongo - recorded in Paris in 1995 and highlighting the Zouk/dancehall/Makossa crossover sound that was then coming out of the city’s studios. Features a new remix from Canadian producer Poirier for a 2024 bassline zouk mover, cut loud and proud on 12” vinyl.
Ferdinand ‘Maréchal’ Papillon was part of the makossa wave that moved from Cameroon to France and across the African diaspora in the 80s and 90s, bringing the sounds of rhythms of Douala and Yaoundé to the clubs and dancefloors of Paris. Although best known for his Sakissa style - his own uptempo take on the makossa of Cameroon - Papillon also regularly featured zouk and reggae influenced tracks on his albums, combining Caribbean and African influences into a unique sound that has stood the test of time.
‘Moulongo’ originally appeared on Papillon’s highly sought after 1995 album “Homme fort….je suis sérieux” and was recorded at Studio de la Madeleine in Paris. The Moulongo session features a who’s who of the Paris scene of the time - Aladji Touré and Toto Guillaume from Cameroon as well as Congolese guitar greats Ngoma Lokito and Nene Tchacou - and combines dancehall, zouk and makossa elements for a pan-African dancefloor sureshot. More
Ferdinand ‘Maréchal’ Papillon was part of the makossa wave that moved from Cameroon to France and across the African diaspora in the 80s and 90s, bringing the sounds of rhythms of Douala and Yaoundé to the clubs and dancefloors of Paris. Although best known for his Sakissa style - his own uptempo take on the makossa of Cameroon - Papillon also regularly featured zouk and reggae influenced tracks on his albums, combining Caribbean and African influences into a unique sound that has stood the test of time.
‘Moulongo’ originally appeared on Papillon’s highly sought after 1995 album “Homme fort….je suis sérieux” and was recorded at Studio de la Madeleine in Paris. The Moulongo session features a who’s who of the Paris scene of the time - Aladji Touré and Toto Guillaume from Cameroon as well as Congolese guitar greats Ngoma Lokito and Nene Tchacou - and combines dancehall, zouk and makossa elements for a pan-African dancefloor sureshot. More
1
Barbara Hernandez - All Nite Tonight (Vocal)
2
Barbara Hernandez - All Nite Tonight (Version)
Cult soca disco 12”, produced by Leston Paul and originally released in 1984 - now available for the first time in 40 years.
Barbara Hernandez was working as a backing singer for Kool and the Gang in New York at the time the track was recorded, and the session featured their horn section as well as a who’s who of the Trinidad music scene for what would be Barbara’s only solo release. Suffering from poor distribution at the time of release, the 12” failed to make waves at the time but is now lovingly remastered and cut loud, a sure fire dancefloor sure shot. More
Barbara Hernandez was working as a backing singer for Kool and the Gang in New York at the time the track was recorded, and the session featured their horn section as well as a who’s who of the Trinidad music scene for what would be Barbara’s only solo release. Suffering from poor distribution at the time of release, the 12” failed to make waves at the time but is now lovingly remastered and cut loud, a sure fire dancefloor sure shot. More
1
The Godfathers - Ebe Ye Yie Ni
2
Pat Thomas - Gye Wani
3
Pepper, Onion, Ginger & Salt - M.C. Mambo
4
Andy Vans - Adjoa Amisa
5
George Darko - Kaakyire Nua
6
Rex Gyamfi - Obiara Bewu
7
Starlite - Anoma Koro
8
Abdul Raheem - Alaiye
9
Jon K - Asafo
10
Kwasi Afari Minta - Barima Nsu
11
Marijata (feat. Ata Kak) - Otanhunu
12
Gyedu Blay Ambolley - Apple
13
Dadadi - Jigi Jigi
14
Charles Amoah - Fre Me (Call Me)
15
Ernest Honny - New Dance
16
Bessa Simons - Sii Nana
17
Nan Mayen - Mumude
18
Nana Budjei - Asobrachie
In the early 1980s, a particular alchemy between new musical technologies and significant social, cultural, and political transformations in Ghana gave rise to a new style of highlife. Drum machines and synthesisers appeared alongside lilting guitar lines and punchy horns, and the emerging Ghanaian diaspora began incorporating US disco and boogie, R&B, European new wave, and Caribbean zouk and soca into their music.
This style soundtracked the birth of a new, proud Ghanaian identity and captured the idiosyncrasies of a rapidly changing postcolonial society, marked by increased migration and wider access to global sounds and modern technology.
More than 20 years after the release of the heavy funk and Afrobeat-focused Ghana Soundz compilations, and following the success of 2009’s Ghana Special: Modern Highlife, Afro Sounds & Ghanaian Blues 1968-1981, Soundway is now shining the spotlight on the multifaceted, diasporic sounds of the ‘80s on new compilation Ghana Special - Volume 2, a collection of 18 burger highlife, electronic afrobeat, and reggae tracks.
Though Ghanaian to its very core, burger highlife emerged mostly outside of Ghana and just as the sun was setting on the country’s musical golden age. In the 1960s and 1970s cities such as Accra, Tema, Takoradi, and Cape Coast were home to thriving music scenes, and the loud horn sections of the big highlife bands, or the simpler, socially conscious palm wine music ruled the dance halls, locals drinkeries, and airwaves.
Back then music represented a powerful force, and an artist’s endorsement or dissent could make or break a politician. Perhaps to curb this power, the incoming military regime-imposed curfews and substantial import taxes on musical instruments in the early 1980s. These measures, coupled with a profound economic downturn and shifting musical preferences that saw DJs replacing large live bands, served as the final blow to Ghana's once-thriving music scene.
Musicians left Ghana in droves, scattering across West Africa, Europe, and North America. Thanks in part to its more permissive migration policies Germany became the heart of this scene, and the movement in fact takes its name from “Bürger”, the German for “citizen”. Less confined by genres than back in Ghana, artists in the diaspora were quick to engage with the different styles, working disco, boogie, and funk into their highlife melodies. Access to state-of-the-art studios and modern musical technologies also gave birth to all sorts of mutations: burger highlife in fact is less defined by one particular sound, than by the experimental approach and global outlook of its artists.
Tracks such as Ernest Honny’s experimental cut “New Dance” are an example of just how far artists strayed from original highlife arrangements. Honny, who started his career as a keyboard player with Dr K Gyasi’s band The Noble Kings, had moved to Benin in the 1980s, where he experimented with synthesisers and drum machines at one of Cotonou’s top studios. Similarly, Nan Mayen’s “Mumude” is a slick, 80’s pop track which was recorded in Germany, with only a slight echo of highlife in its opening Fanti lyrics.
This generation of artists found inspiration in sounds that transcended geographical boundaries: singer and guitarist Nana Budjei, who was originally from central Ghana but had moved to the UK in the 1980s, says that his radiant, sun-drenched 1988 track “Asobrachie” is “influenced by reggae maestros Bob Marley and Alpha Blondy, and traditional Akan folklore music”; on “Jigi Jigi”, the Kumasi-born, Sweden transplant Delips Apo draws on soca, latin, and zouk influences.
Throughout the 1980s Ghanaian artists kept producing increasingly innovative and experimental hybrids, winning over new audiences abroad. Though back in Ghana the new sound was initially met with disapproval by purists, it slowly became a symbol of a new, worldly and modern Ghanaian identity. The creativity and open mindedness that characterised burger highlife have gone on to shape the evolution of Ghanaian music since, giving artists the freedom to explore new global sounds while preserving a proudly Ghanaian soul. Ghana Special - Volume 2 stands as a vibrant tribute to the lasting legacy of this groundbreaking musical era. More
This style soundtracked the birth of a new, proud Ghanaian identity and captured the idiosyncrasies of a rapidly changing postcolonial society, marked by increased migration and wider access to global sounds and modern technology.
More than 20 years after the release of the heavy funk and Afrobeat-focused Ghana Soundz compilations, and following the success of 2009’s Ghana Special: Modern Highlife, Afro Sounds & Ghanaian Blues 1968-1981, Soundway is now shining the spotlight on the multifaceted, diasporic sounds of the ‘80s on new compilation Ghana Special - Volume 2, a collection of 18 burger highlife, electronic afrobeat, and reggae tracks.
Though Ghanaian to its very core, burger highlife emerged mostly outside of Ghana and just as the sun was setting on the country’s musical golden age. In the 1960s and 1970s cities such as Accra, Tema, Takoradi, and Cape Coast were home to thriving music scenes, and the loud horn sections of the big highlife bands, or the simpler, socially conscious palm wine music ruled the dance halls, locals drinkeries, and airwaves.
Back then music represented a powerful force, and an artist’s endorsement or dissent could make or break a politician. Perhaps to curb this power, the incoming military regime-imposed curfews and substantial import taxes on musical instruments in the early 1980s. These measures, coupled with a profound economic downturn and shifting musical preferences that saw DJs replacing large live bands, served as the final blow to Ghana's once-thriving music scene.
Musicians left Ghana in droves, scattering across West Africa, Europe, and North America. Thanks in part to its more permissive migration policies Germany became the heart of this scene, and the movement in fact takes its name from “Bürger”, the German for “citizen”. Less confined by genres than back in Ghana, artists in the diaspora were quick to engage with the different styles, working disco, boogie, and funk into their highlife melodies. Access to state-of-the-art studios and modern musical technologies also gave birth to all sorts of mutations: burger highlife in fact is less defined by one particular sound, than by the experimental approach and global outlook of its artists.
Tracks such as Ernest Honny’s experimental cut “New Dance” are an example of just how far artists strayed from original highlife arrangements. Honny, who started his career as a keyboard player with Dr K Gyasi’s band The Noble Kings, had moved to Benin in the 1980s, where he experimented with synthesisers and drum machines at one of Cotonou’s top studios. Similarly, Nan Mayen’s “Mumude” is a slick, 80’s pop track which was recorded in Germany, with only a slight echo of highlife in its opening Fanti lyrics.
This generation of artists found inspiration in sounds that transcended geographical boundaries: singer and guitarist Nana Budjei, who was originally from central Ghana but had moved to the UK in the 1980s, says that his radiant, sun-drenched 1988 track “Asobrachie” is “influenced by reggae maestros Bob Marley and Alpha Blondy, and traditional Akan folklore music”; on “Jigi Jigi”, the Kumasi-born, Sweden transplant Delips Apo draws on soca, latin, and zouk influences.
Throughout the 1980s Ghanaian artists kept producing increasingly innovative and experimental hybrids, winning over new audiences abroad. Though back in Ghana the new sound was initially met with disapproval by purists, it slowly became a symbol of a new, worldly and modern Ghanaian identity. The creativity and open mindedness that characterised burger highlife have gone on to shape the evolution of Ghanaian music since, giving artists the freedom to explore new global sounds while preserving a proudly Ghanaian soul. Ghana Special - Volume 2 stands as a vibrant tribute to the lasting legacy of this groundbreaking musical era. More
1
Sai Galaxy - Sometimes It Rains (Feat. Kaivili)
2
Sai Galaxy - Okere (Feat. Bade)
3
Sai Galaxy - Rich Man, Poor Man (Feat. ROB)
4
Sai Galaxy - Hold Me Tonight (Feat. Steve Monite)
The star-studded Sai Galaxy project returns, bringing together West African legends Steve Monite and Rob with multi-instrumentalist Simon Durrington, guitar maestro Alfred Bannerman and Egypt 80 trumpet player Bade for a second EP of vital Afro Disco and Soul. The EP follows up 2022’s “Get It As You Move” EP, blending layers of vocal harmonies and synth washes with a rock solid disco base. The sound stays faithful to the analogue production techniques of the 70s and 80s, adding a modern touch informed by Simon Durrington’s Digital Afrika project.
Lead single Hold You Tonight features Nigerian disco icon Steve Monite (best known for his mega hit “Only You”), revisiting his 80s origins with a dancefloor-ready slice of dubby boogie.
Rich Man Poor Man (featuring Ghana’s very own Rob) slows down the tempo and brings the highlife influence to the fore, while Sometimes It Rains brings a neo soul bump with the Omar-esque sound of Fijian vocalist Kaivili. More
Lead single Hold You Tonight features Nigerian disco icon Steve Monite (best known for his mega hit “Only You”), revisiting his 80s origins with a dancefloor-ready slice of dubby boogie.
Rich Man Poor Man (featuring Ghana’s very own Rob) slows down the tempo and brings the highlife influence to the fore, while Sometimes It Rains brings a neo soul bump with the Omar-esque sound of Fijian vocalist Kaivili. More
1
Black Truth Rhythm Band - Ifetayo
2
Black Truth Rhythm Band - You People
3
Black Truth Rhythm Band - Save D Musician
4
Black Truth Rhythm Band - Kilimanjaro
5
Black Truth Rhythm Band - Aspire
6
Black Truth Rhythm Band - Umbala
7
Black Truth Rhythm Band - Imo
Soundway presents a long-awaited remaster and re-cut of the 1976 album ‘Ifetayo’ by Black Truth Rhythm Band, an important and overlooked chapter in Trinidad’s rich musical history that blends West African influences with jazz, funk and the social commentary of the calypso tradition.
Led by the charismatic Oluko Imo (who went on to record with Fela Kuti and perform with members of Fela’s Egypt 80 band ), the group drew on the strong connections to Yoruba culture and Orisa traditions in Trinidad, looking to Africa for inspiration and reflecting the burgeoning Black Power movement of the time.
Recorded at KH studios in Port of Spain, Ifetayo (Yoruba for ‘Love excels all’) was the group’s sole album release. Imo contributed lead vocals and played bass, kalimba, conga, flute and percussion, channelling music from both sides of the Atlantic into a distinctive and unique slice of Afro Trinidadian expression.
Includes bonus track “Imo” not included on the original LP More
Led by the charismatic Oluko Imo (who went on to record with Fela Kuti and perform with members of Fela’s Egypt 80 band ), the group drew on the strong connections to Yoruba culture and Orisa traditions in Trinidad, looking to Africa for inspiration and reflecting the burgeoning Black Power movement of the time.
Recorded at KH studios in Port of Spain, Ifetayo (Yoruba for ‘Love excels all’) was the group’s sole album release. Imo contributed lead vocals and played bass, kalimba, conga, flute and percussion, channelling music from both sides of the Atlantic into a distinctive and unique slice of Afro Trinidadian expression.
Includes bonus track “Imo” not included on the original LP More
1
Oluko Imo - Oduduwa
2
Oluko Imo - Were Oju Le (The Eyes Are Getting Red)
Reissue of the 80s 12” single from Trinidadian musician Oluko Imo (Black Truth Rhythm Band), featuring Fela Kuti and Femi Kuti.
Recorded between Lagos and New York in 1988, the tracks sit at the fault line of the Trinidad-Yoruba connection, blending calypso heritage with the Afrobeat and jazz of Nigeria
On the A-side, title track ‘Oduduwa’ is a brooding slice of peak-era Transatlantic Afrobeat, blending a heartfelt plea for social justice and equality with a haunting piano line, shuffling drums and ethereal sax solo.
The song takes its name from Oduduwa, the founder of the Ife Empire, who is also seen as a divine Orisha (deity) in Yoruba culture, one that is often evoked by musicians and activists in Trinidad as a signifier of Yoruba heritage on the island.
On the flip, ‘Eyes Are Getting Red (Were Oju Le)’ is a long-lost slice of low slung Afrobeat featuring both Fela and Femi Kuti. Classic Nigerian horns and keys combine with Oluko Imo’s Caribbean-influenced guitar and Fela’s virtuoso sax solo, bridging the musical gap between Lagos and Port of Spain. More
Recorded between Lagos and New York in 1988, the tracks sit at the fault line of the Trinidad-Yoruba connection, blending calypso heritage with the Afrobeat and jazz of Nigeria
On the A-side, title track ‘Oduduwa’ is a brooding slice of peak-era Transatlantic Afrobeat, blending a heartfelt plea for social justice and equality with a haunting piano line, shuffling drums and ethereal sax solo.
The song takes its name from Oduduwa, the founder of the Ife Empire, who is also seen as a divine Orisha (deity) in Yoruba culture, one that is often evoked by musicians and activists in Trinidad as a signifier of Yoruba heritage on the island.
On the flip, ‘Eyes Are Getting Red (Were Oju Le)’ is a long-lost slice of low slung Afrobeat featuring both Fela and Femi Kuti. Classic Nigerian horns and keys combine with Oluko Imo’s Caribbean-influenced guitar and Fela’s virtuoso sax solo, bridging the musical gap between Lagos and Port of Spain. More
1
Gypsy Fari - Chi-Town Reggae
2
Gypsy Fari - Hail Jah
Reissue of the highly sought-after 7” from 1979 by Chicago reggae outfit Gypsy Fari.
Gypsy Fari was a project born in the south side of Chicago, after a chance meeting between St Kitts expat Leroy Webster and local music grad Kevin Coleman. The pair set out to blur the boundaries of genre with their unique brand of music,spearheaded by Webster’s Caribbean roots and fused with the soul and blues the midwest is famous for.
A striking stand-out of the band’s repertoire comes via their debut recording, laid down at Curtis Mayfield’s legendary Curtom Studios. The EP opens with Chi-Town Reggae - a super-charged blend of reggae and disco, led by Websters infectious vocal, steeped in soul and powered by a relentless rhythm section. Hail Jah follows closely, written on the hilltops of the outskirts of Kingston, Jamaica, it’s a deadly roots reggae missile that pays homage to Websters beginnings.
Once dubbed by a local news outlet “Gypsy Fari are to Chicago reggae what Muddy Water is to Chicago blues” - now remastered, repackaged and made available again for the first time since its initial release. More
Gypsy Fari was a project born in the south side of Chicago, after a chance meeting between St Kitts expat Leroy Webster and local music grad Kevin Coleman. The pair set out to blur the boundaries of genre with their unique brand of music,spearheaded by Webster’s Caribbean roots and fused with the soul and blues the midwest is famous for.
A striking stand-out of the band’s repertoire comes via their debut recording, laid down at Curtis Mayfield’s legendary Curtom Studios. The EP opens with Chi-Town Reggae - a super-charged blend of reggae and disco, led by Websters infectious vocal, steeped in soul and powered by a relentless rhythm section. Hail Jah follows closely, written on the hilltops of the outskirts of Kingston, Jamaica, it’s a deadly roots reggae missile that pays homage to Websters beginnings.
Once dubbed by a local news outlet “Gypsy Fari are to Chicago reggae what Muddy Water is to Chicago blues” - now remastered, repackaged and made available again for the first time since its initial release. More
Label:Soundway Records
Cat-No:SNDW12048
Release-Date:29.09.2023
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:12"
Label:Soundway Records
Cat-No:SNDW12048
Release-Date:29.09.2023
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:12"
1
Rex Omar - Dada
2
Rex Omar - Tokota
3
Rex Omar - Konka
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Rex Omar - Osisi
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Rex Omar - Kele Ngele
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Rex Omar - Dada (Aroop Roy Rework)
Five of Rex Omar's premier cuts remastered for a new self-titled EP - an irresistible blend of street-soul-come-highlife, with elements of bouncing 90s RnB/hip-hop !
Over his career Rex Omar has evolved the genre, pushing boundaries and dazzling listeners. A definitive piece of his repertoire comes via his Dangerous album: while it was self- produced and recorded in London circa 1997, upon CD release it saw success mainly within his homeland of Ghana. An irresistible blend of street-soul-come-highlife, with elements of bouncing 90s RnB/hip-hop, it was developed with help from Ibibio Sound Machine’s Kari Bannerman and prolific Jamaican producer Bill Campbell. From this album rising London producer and DJ Aroop Roy revisits the four-to-the-floor excursion ‘Dada’, repurposing for today’s dancefloor with the addition of fizzing synth chords and stabs.
While Omar regularly raps on his earlier works, on ‘Kele Ngele’ (taken from his 2004 album Ajala) we hear a yearning melodic vocal over a more laid back RnB beat. This rounds out the new Rex Omar EP for the discerning listener to experience the full breadth of his inventive output. More
Over his career Rex Omar has evolved the genre, pushing boundaries and dazzling listeners. A definitive piece of his repertoire comes via his Dangerous album: while it was self- produced and recorded in London circa 1997, upon CD release it saw success mainly within his homeland of Ghana. An irresistible blend of street-soul-come-highlife, with elements of bouncing 90s RnB/hip-hop, it was developed with help from Ibibio Sound Machine’s Kari Bannerman and prolific Jamaican producer Bill Campbell. From this album rising London producer and DJ Aroop Roy revisits the four-to-the-floor excursion ‘Dada’, repurposing for today’s dancefloor with the addition of fizzing synth chords and stabs.
While Omar regularly raps on his earlier works, on ‘Kele Ngele’ (taken from his 2004 album Ajala) we hear a yearning melodic vocal over a more laid back RnB beat. This rounds out the new Rex Omar EP for the discerning listener to experience the full breadth of his inventive output. More
1
Circus Underwater - Big Buck Meets The Perpendicular Fish
2
Circus Underwater - Trees Walk
3
Circus Underwater - The Surface Of The Water
4
Circus Underwater - Rugaru By Itself
5
Circus Underwater - I Wash My Hair With Limes
6
Circus Underwater - She Dreams Of Golden Golves Dancing
7
Circus Underwater - ENtrance Of The Deacon
8
Circus Underwater - Weeping Of Electric Sheep
9
Circus Underwater - First Hump Of Stately Plump
10
Circus Underwater - Thunder Daughters Underwater
11
Circus Underwater - Requiem For The Glass Trapeze
12
Circus Underwater - Muddy Ghosts Running From Rain
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Circus Underwater - Behind The Altar There Is A Carousel
Remastered release of Circus Underwater’s 1984 self titled outing, including unreleased tracks taken from the original ¼” tapes. Soundway presents Circus Underwater’s 1984 self-titled masterpiece. Remastered and extended to a double LP, thisdeluxe version includes six unreleased tracks unearthed fromthe original 1/4” tapes, and presented with an insert, includingnever-before-seen photos and the fascinating story behind the music.
Featuring artwork from Grateful Dead collaborator, DavidLundquist, the album encapsulates a unique moment intime. Echoing the story of a generation that grew up in the 50s and 60s where music was everything, two friends embarkon a journey of experimentation which begins in the beatnik suburbs of Washington DC and travels to the heart of hippieSan Francisco. The result is an opus that fearlessly blurs the boundaries of genres and embraces diverse influences. Elements of prog, rock, ambient and wave music culminatein an odyssey that seamlessly bridges the gap between thespaced-out creativity of the 70s and electronic music of today.
releases September 15, 2023
Original artwork by David Lundquist.
Mastering and lacquer cuts by Frank Merritt, The Carvery Studio, London.
Artwork restoration by Javi Bayo.
FOR FANS OF:
Jeff Majors, Song Of The Golden Lotus, Peter Westheimer, Workdub, Floating Points More
Featuring artwork from Grateful Dead collaborator, DavidLundquist, the album encapsulates a unique moment intime. Echoing the story of a generation that grew up in the 50s and 60s where music was everything, two friends embarkon a journey of experimentation which begins in the beatnik suburbs of Washington DC and travels to the heart of hippieSan Francisco. The result is an opus that fearlessly blurs the boundaries of genres and embraces diverse influences. Elements of prog, rock, ambient and wave music culminatein an odyssey that seamlessly bridges the gap between thespaced-out creativity of the 70s and electronic music of today.
releases September 15, 2023
Original artwork by David Lundquist.
Mastering and lacquer cuts by Frank Merritt, The Carvery Studio, London.
Artwork restoration by Javi Bayo.
FOR FANS OF:
Jeff Majors, Song Of The Golden Lotus, Peter Westheimer, Workdub, Floating Points More
1
Ayo Manuel - Song Of Love (Instrumental)
2
Ayo Manuel - Fun Time
3
Ayo Manuel - Don't Stop
4
Ayo Manuel - Sojourn (Ajo)
5
Ayo Manuel - Gboro Mi Ro
6
Ayo Manuel - Do Good
Soundway Records presents Ayo Manuel ‘1983-1990’, a collection of selected works by one of Nigeria’s DIY pioneers.
This mini compilation selects the stand out cuts from his two albums Love Candidate and Party Time, showcasing the evolution of Ayo’s music. Side A is led by Song Of Love (Instrumental) - mid-tempo, synth-heavy music toeing the line between lo-fi crunch and sophisticated charm. This is followed closely by afro-disco melters Don’t Stop and the aptly titled Fun Time. Both with strong American, disco-funk leanings but full of Nigerian flavour, they come signed, sealed and delivered for any discerning dancefloor.
Sojourn (Ajo) lights up side-B, a coming-of-age journey that sets the tone for the rest of the album. With slick US production, but with its feet firmly planted in Yoruba culture, we find a more developed artist combining talking drums with distinct ’90s production, that deliver a unique blend of afro-pop. Gboro Mi Ro echoes the influence of Nigeria’s biggest musical export, Fela Kuti, but still retains its own particular character. Do Good follows in the footsteps of its predecessors but with added drama and depth. More
This mini compilation selects the stand out cuts from his two albums Love Candidate and Party Time, showcasing the evolution of Ayo’s music. Side A is led by Song Of Love (Instrumental) - mid-tempo, synth-heavy music toeing the line between lo-fi crunch and sophisticated charm. This is followed closely by afro-disco melters Don’t Stop and the aptly titled Fun Time. Both with strong American, disco-funk leanings but full of Nigerian flavour, they come signed, sealed and delivered for any discerning dancefloor.
Sojourn (Ajo) lights up side-B, a coming-of-age journey that sets the tone for the rest of the album. With slick US production, but with its feet firmly planted in Yoruba culture, we find a more developed artist combining talking drums with distinct ’90s production, that deliver a unique blend of afro-pop. Gboro Mi Ro echoes the influence of Nigeria’s biggest musical export, Fela Kuti, but still retains its own particular character. Do Good follows in the footsteps of its predecessors but with added drama and depth. More
1
Ondatrópica - Tiene Sabor, Tiene Sazon
2
Ondatrópica - Punkero Sonidero
3
Ondatrópica - Li´bya
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Ondatrópica - Suena
5
Ondatrópica - Locomotora Borracha
6
Ondatrópica - Remando
7
Ondatrópica - Ska Fuentes
8
Ondatrópica - 3 Reyes De La Terapia
9
Ondatrópica - Gaita Tropica
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Ondatrópica - I Ron Man
11
Ondatrópica - Dos Lucecitas
12
Ondatrópica - Cumbia Especial
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Ondatrópica - Swing De Gillian
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Ondatrópica - Bomba Tropica
15
Ondatrópica - Linda Mañana
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Ondatrópica - El Caiman Y El Gallinazo
17
Ondatrópica - Mambo Loco Especial
18
Ondatrópica - Papi Shingaling
19
Ondatrópica - Mi Negra
20
Ondatrópica - Traigan La Batea
21
Ondatrópica - Donde Suena El Bombo
22
Ondatrópica - Curro Fuentes
23
Ondatrópica - Descarga Tropica
24
Ondatrópica - Cien Años
25
Ondatrópica - Rap Maya
26
Ondatrópica - Pig Bag
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Ondatrópica - Homenaje A Landero
2023 Repress!
Conceived by Colombian musician Mario Galeano, the force behind the band Frente Cumbiero, and English producer Will ‘Quantic’ Holland, Ondatrópica brings together an all-star cast representing both the classic and modern styles of la musica Colombiana.
Over 3 weeks in January 2012 at the famous Discos Fuentes studios in Medellín legendary figures from Colombian music joined a group of younger Colombian musicians that included members of both Mario’s band Frente Cumbeiro and Quantic’s Combo Barbaro. The plan; “to re-interpret the tropical musical heritage of Colombia with new approaches in composition, arrangement and production in a classic and mythical setting.”
For the recording Will and Mario invited musicians that they felt had made a particularly important contribution to the history of tropical music in Colombia. Michi Sarmiento, crowned the Godfather of Ondatrópica during the recording process, sounds as at home playing on the drunken Black Sabbath cover ‘I Ron Man’ as he does on 'El Caiman y Gallenazo', a song penned by his father.
Multi-instrumentalist Fruko, the prodigy of the Fuentes Studio and one of the top progressive minds of the 70s got so involved that he joined the project for much longer than originally planned, and even ended up preparing desserts and fruit salads for the large group of musicians that had been assembled in the studio.
The Barranquilla-based accordion-playing don and singer Anibal Velasquez also joined the recording for two days. Another of the 42 musicians involved was octogenarian pianist Juancho Vargas who came straight from hospital to the studio to record ‘Cumbia Espacial’.
A mixture of well known and classic Colombian styles such as cumbia, porro, gaita and champeta clash head-on with boogaloo, ska, beat-box, hip hop, dub and funk. The tracks range from straight-up timeless pieces with one foot in the 1960s and 70s to progressive and forward-looking recordings firmly rooted in the 21st century. Mario and Will also adopted a 100% analogue recording approach in tribute to a sound and feel that the studio had been lacking for some years now.
Chilean MC Ana Tijoux takes the microphone for ‘Suena’, the melody line an ode to the major-key sound of 60s Sabanero cumbias. El Chongo, a young percussionist and beatboxer from the Caribbean city of Cartagena features on ‘Rap Maya’, a sound-clash with 82-year old gaita player Pedro Ramaya.
Soundway’s exploration into Colombian music began in 2007 with it’s much acclaimed compilation ‘Colombia! The Golden Age of Discos Fuentes The Powerhouse of Colombian Music 1960-76’. That compilation features many original works from the above-mentioned artists as well as some of the main session men of the day that also played on this new record. It's fitting then that Ondatrópica came together in the legendary Discos Fuentes studios in Medellín. More
Conceived by Colombian musician Mario Galeano, the force behind the band Frente Cumbiero, and English producer Will ‘Quantic’ Holland, Ondatrópica brings together an all-star cast representing both the classic and modern styles of la musica Colombiana.
Over 3 weeks in January 2012 at the famous Discos Fuentes studios in Medellín legendary figures from Colombian music joined a group of younger Colombian musicians that included members of both Mario’s band Frente Cumbeiro and Quantic’s Combo Barbaro. The plan; “to re-interpret the tropical musical heritage of Colombia with new approaches in composition, arrangement and production in a classic and mythical setting.”
For the recording Will and Mario invited musicians that they felt had made a particularly important contribution to the history of tropical music in Colombia. Michi Sarmiento, crowned the Godfather of Ondatrópica during the recording process, sounds as at home playing on the drunken Black Sabbath cover ‘I Ron Man’ as he does on 'El Caiman y Gallenazo', a song penned by his father.
Multi-instrumentalist Fruko, the prodigy of the Fuentes Studio and one of the top progressive minds of the 70s got so involved that he joined the project for much longer than originally planned, and even ended up preparing desserts and fruit salads for the large group of musicians that had been assembled in the studio.
The Barranquilla-based accordion-playing don and singer Anibal Velasquez also joined the recording for two days. Another of the 42 musicians involved was octogenarian pianist Juancho Vargas who came straight from hospital to the studio to record ‘Cumbia Espacial’.
A mixture of well known and classic Colombian styles such as cumbia, porro, gaita and champeta clash head-on with boogaloo, ska, beat-box, hip hop, dub and funk. The tracks range from straight-up timeless pieces with one foot in the 1960s and 70s to progressive and forward-looking recordings firmly rooted in the 21st century. Mario and Will also adopted a 100% analogue recording approach in tribute to a sound and feel that the studio had been lacking for some years now.
Chilean MC Ana Tijoux takes the microphone for ‘Suena’, the melody line an ode to the major-key sound of 60s Sabanero cumbias. El Chongo, a young percussionist and beatboxer from the Caribbean city of Cartagena features on ‘Rap Maya’, a sound-clash with 82-year old gaita player Pedro Ramaya.
Soundway’s exploration into Colombian music began in 2007 with it’s much acclaimed compilation ‘Colombia! The Golden Age of Discos Fuentes The Powerhouse of Colombian Music 1960-76’. That compilation features many original works from the above-mentioned artists as well as some of the main session men of the day that also played on this new record. It's fitting then that Ondatrópica came together in the legendary Discos Fuentes studios in Medellín. More
1
Felbm - Cycli Infini
2
Felbm - Cycli Infini
Tracklist:
A: Cycli Infini
B: Cycli Infini
Dutch multi-instrumentalist Felbm returns with the conceptual album ‘cycli infini’ : a 38-minute composition of metamorphosing tape loops, musical patterns and instrumental sketches. Further exploring the concept is the vinyl release which features the track spread over both sides and cut to the end of each locked groove - creating an essentially never-ending piece that challenges the idea of the traditional listening process.
The idea came to fruition by way of a lifelong interest and growing awareness of the cyclical nature of the world around him - be it through observing nature, or the mathematical and mind-bending works of Dutch artist MC Escher, or minimalist composers such as Erik Satie, Laraaji and Melaine Dalibert. “The openness of Laraaji’s and Satie’s music have also been an influence to create a certain softness and feeling of comfort, as I like this piece to be a place you want to revisit”, says Felbm, real name Eelco Topper.
While Topper’s previous releases on Soundway Records comprised series of short, individual sketches, on cycli infini the tapestry is sewn seamlessly together using a step-like progression through the circle of fifths, which as the name suggests, brings the listener back to the musical key and soundscape at which they started. Should the full track be on repeat, it begins anew without being noticed.
The piece began life with a layer of drone loops using tapes and delay pedals, over which acoustic instruments such as flute, saxophone and bass trumpet would playfully but gently interpret a melody - toying with jazz, ambient, fourth world and percussive sounds. As the music evolves through the key progression, organic elements such as birdsong and wind chimes ground the piece in nature. Says Topper: “the never-ending metamorphosis of matter has always fascinated me, the idea that nothing ever really disappears and everything has already been here… just in different shapes.”
For Fans of:
Laraaji, Basil Kirchin, Gaussian Curve, Young Marco, Greg Foat, Bibio, KPM library records More
A: Cycli Infini
B: Cycli Infini
Dutch multi-instrumentalist Felbm returns with the conceptual album ‘cycli infini’ : a 38-minute composition of metamorphosing tape loops, musical patterns and instrumental sketches. Further exploring the concept is the vinyl release which features the track spread over both sides and cut to the end of each locked groove - creating an essentially never-ending piece that challenges the idea of the traditional listening process.
The idea came to fruition by way of a lifelong interest and growing awareness of the cyclical nature of the world around him - be it through observing nature, or the mathematical and mind-bending works of Dutch artist MC Escher, or minimalist composers such as Erik Satie, Laraaji and Melaine Dalibert. “The openness of Laraaji’s and Satie’s music have also been an influence to create a certain softness and feeling of comfort, as I like this piece to be a place you want to revisit”, says Felbm, real name Eelco Topper.
While Topper’s previous releases on Soundway Records comprised series of short, individual sketches, on cycli infini the tapestry is sewn seamlessly together using a step-like progression through the circle of fifths, which as the name suggests, brings the listener back to the musical key and soundscape at which they started. Should the full track be on repeat, it begins anew without being noticed.
The piece began life with a layer of drone loops using tapes and delay pedals, over which acoustic instruments such as flute, saxophone and bass trumpet would playfully but gently interpret a melody - toying with jazz, ambient, fourth world and percussive sounds. As the music evolves through the key progression, organic elements such as birdsong and wind chimes ground the piece in nature. Says Topper: “the never-ending metamorphosis of matter has always fascinated me, the idea that nothing ever really disappears and everything has already been here… just in different shapes.”
For Fans of:
Laraaji, Basil Kirchin, Gaussian Curve, Young Marco, Greg Foat, Bibio, KPM library records More
1
Yoruba Singers - Ojinga's Own
2
Yoruba Singers - What To Do
3
Yoruba Singers - Stay Away
4
Yoruba Singers - Uncomprehensidensible Radio-Matic Woman
5
Yoruba Singers - Neighbour Jean
6
Yoruba Singers - G.o.-Go
7
Yoruba Singers - Massacura Man
8
Yoruba Singers - Woman A Dead Ya Fuh Man
9
Yoruba Singers - Ka Duma
10
Yoruba Singers - I've Got To Be Somebody
11
Yoruba Singers - No Intention
Tracklist:
Sida A
1. Ojinga’s Own
2. What To Do
3. Stay Away
4. Uncomprehensidensible
Radio-Matic Woman
5. Neighbour Jean
6. G.o.-Go
SIDE B
1. Massacura Man
2. Woman A Dead Ya Fuh Man
3. Ka Duma
4. I’ve Got To Be Somebody
5. No Intention
The 1974 debut album Ojinga’s Own and single Basa Bongo/Black Pepper by Guyanese Afro-Folk band The Yoruba Singers has been remastered for vinyl and digital.
The Yoruba Singers formed in Georgetown, Guyana in 1971. Despite their name they were not from Nigeria, but identified strongly with the area from which so many of the African diaspora in Guyana and neighbouring regions were originally descended.
The group started adapting Guyanese traditional folk music as well as writing their own - blending a mixture of protest, social commentary, blues, and genres inspired by the times. Beginning with about 12 people sharing vocal duties, most of the early repertoire was inspired by folk songs that started life on plantations or in religious settings accompanied by a few sparse musical instruments.
Integral to the Yoruba Singers’ sound are echoes of Obeah traditions which are very closely related to the Santería religion of Cuba and the Orisha and Shango traditions of Trinidad and Tobago. Calypso and steel-band culture from nearby Trinidad and Tobago was to some extent part of the musical DNA of the group, but they were naturally also influenced by the massive volume of rocksteady and roots-reggae coming from Jamaica.
For Fans Of:
Sir Victor Uwaifo, Francis Bebey, Fela Kuti More
Sida A
1. Ojinga’s Own
2. What To Do
3. Stay Away
4. Uncomprehensidensible
Radio-Matic Woman
5. Neighbour Jean
6. G.o.-Go
SIDE B
1. Massacura Man
2. Woman A Dead Ya Fuh Man
3. Ka Duma
4. I’ve Got To Be Somebody
5. No Intention
The 1974 debut album Ojinga’s Own and single Basa Bongo/Black Pepper by Guyanese Afro-Folk band The Yoruba Singers has been remastered for vinyl and digital.
The Yoruba Singers formed in Georgetown, Guyana in 1971. Despite their name they were not from Nigeria, but identified strongly with the area from which so many of the African diaspora in Guyana and neighbouring regions were originally descended.
The group started adapting Guyanese traditional folk music as well as writing their own - blending a mixture of protest, social commentary, blues, and genres inspired by the times. Beginning with about 12 people sharing vocal duties, most of the early repertoire was inspired by folk songs that started life on plantations or in religious settings accompanied by a few sparse musical instruments.
Integral to the Yoruba Singers’ sound are echoes of Obeah traditions which are very closely related to the Santería religion of Cuba and the Orisha and Shango traditions of Trinidad and Tobago. Calypso and steel-band culture from nearby Trinidad and Tobago was to some extent part of the musical DNA of the group, but they were naturally also influenced by the massive volume of rocksteady and roots-reggae coming from Jamaica.
For Fans Of:
Sir Victor Uwaifo, Francis Bebey, Fela Kuti More
1
Yoruba Singers - Basa Bongo
2
Yoruba Singers - Black Pepper
Tracklist:
A: Basa Bongo
B: Black Pepper
Guyana folk music reinterpreted and infused with Afro-roots and culture, reissued on vinyl for the first time.
A year after their debut album ‘Ojinga’s Own’, the Yoruba Singers from Guyana released the singles ‘Black Pepper’ and ‘Basa Bongo’. These two songs were recorded in Barbados and released on the Green Shrimp label and became extremely popular throughout the Caribbean and South America. The music also became an integral part of the very beginnings of what was later to become the Champeta Criolla sound in the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
For Fans Of:
Sir Victor Uwaifo, Francis Bebey, Fela Kuti More
A: Basa Bongo
B: Black Pepper
Guyana folk music reinterpreted and infused with Afro-roots and culture, reissued on vinyl for the first time.
A year after their debut album ‘Ojinga’s Own’, the Yoruba Singers from Guyana released the singles ‘Black Pepper’ and ‘Basa Bongo’. These two songs were recorded in Barbados and released on the Green Shrimp label and became extremely popular throughout the Caribbean and South America. The music also became an integral part of the very beginnings of what was later to become the Champeta Criolla sound in the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
For Fans Of:
Sir Victor Uwaifo, Francis Bebey, Fela Kuti More
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1
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - Bodily Synesthesia
2
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - Lundar Wind
3
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - Beswitched By The Sea
4
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - My BlueBell
5
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - Last Waltz In Perugia
6
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - Gimlet
7
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - It's Too Easy To Love You
8
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - Your Magic Touch
9
Aura Safari / Jimi Tenor - Indigo
Great music is often about chance meetings and impromptu creative sessions and so it is that Hell Yeah proudly serves up Sensory Blending, a new collaborative album from Italian collective Aura Safari and Finnish musician Jimi Tenor. The nine-track record is a lush and luxurious fusion of jazz-funk styles.
This glorious record came about after Tenor was playing a Hell Yeah party at Tangram in Perugia. Aura Safari were local and, in some free time the day before the gig, everyone jumped in the studio together. They had never met before but soon found plenty of free-flowing common ground and the result of that one-off session is now served up on this vibrant new album that brims with musicality, indelible melodies and subtly uplifting vibrations.
Tenor has toured the world and previously collaborated with the likes of Japanese master Calm. He is a psychedelic space-jazz-funk king, skilled musician, composer and producer who, since the mid-nineties, has released more than 25 albums and 45 EPs. Aura Safari is made up of bass, synth, guitar and keys players Lorenzo Francioli, Ruggero Bonucci, Nicola Pitassio Andrea Moretti, Lorenzo Lavoratori, Daniele Melloni and Nicholas Iammatteo, and they are label regulars who served up their sublime Island Dreams album here last year.
Says Jimi, who enjoyed his time in Perugia and adds that 'the studio session was 100% efficient. I showed up and we started to play. Almost all that was made was material that we could use for the album. I love to work fast. Quick brushstrokes. Finish! I was amazed at how intuitively the Aura Safari guys could come up with new parts for songs. I mentioned some feeling or approach and they seemed to find it just like that.'
'Bodily Synesthesia' is the seductive opener with steamy sax notes and gentle grooves that are topped by aloof vocal whispers. 'Lunar Wind' is another slow and steamy mix of jazzy keys and soulful vocal hooks, 'Bewitched By The Sea' is a more tropical and percussive number with majestic melodies and 'My Bluebell' picks up the pace with jazz-funk grooves and hustling chords. 'Last Waltz In Perugia' has freeform sax lines soaring over meticulous drums that ebb and flow and 'Gimlet' brings a playful, samba-tinged rhythm and sunny flute leads straight from South America. There's a laidback, carefree mood to 'It's Too Easy To Love You' while 'Your Magic Touch' is a dancey number that exudes melodic joy, and 'Indigo' closes in dramatic fashion with a conversational sax that sticks long in the memory.
Sensory Blending is a seamless fusion of collaborative minds from Aura Safari and Jimi Tenor and it could well be performed live at some special select shows later in the year. More
This glorious record came about after Tenor was playing a Hell Yeah party at Tangram in Perugia. Aura Safari were local and, in some free time the day before the gig, everyone jumped in the studio together. They had never met before but soon found plenty of free-flowing common ground and the result of that one-off session is now served up on this vibrant new album that brims with musicality, indelible melodies and subtly uplifting vibrations.
Tenor has toured the world and previously collaborated with the likes of Japanese master Calm. He is a psychedelic space-jazz-funk king, skilled musician, composer and producer who, since the mid-nineties, has released more than 25 albums and 45 EPs. Aura Safari is made up of bass, synth, guitar and keys players Lorenzo Francioli, Ruggero Bonucci, Nicola Pitassio Andrea Moretti, Lorenzo Lavoratori, Daniele Melloni and Nicholas Iammatteo, and they are label regulars who served up their sublime Island Dreams album here last year.
Says Jimi, who enjoyed his time in Perugia and adds that 'the studio session was 100% efficient. I showed up and we started to play. Almost all that was made was material that we could use for the album. I love to work fast. Quick brushstrokes. Finish! I was amazed at how intuitively the Aura Safari guys could come up with new parts for songs. I mentioned some feeling or approach and they seemed to find it just like that.'
'Bodily Synesthesia' is the seductive opener with steamy sax notes and gentle grooves that are topped by aloof vocal whispers. 'Lunar Wind' is another slow and steamy mix of jazzy keys and soulful vocal hooks, 'Bewitched By The Sea' is a more tropical and percussive number with majestic melodies and 'My Bluebell' picks up the pace with jazz-funk grooves and hustling chords. 'Last Waltz In Perugia' has freeform sax lines soaring over meticulous drums that ebb and flow and 'Gimlet' brings a playful, samba-tinged rhythm and sunny flute leads straight from South America. There's a laidback, carefree mood to 'It's Too Easy To Love You' while 'Your Magic Touch' is a dancey number that exudes melodic joy, and 'Indigo' closes in dramatic fashion with a conversational sax that sticks long in the memory.
Sensory Blending is a seamless fusion of collaborative minds from Aura Safari and Jimi Tenor and it could well be performed live at some special select shows later in the year. More
The Jazz Room is a hotly curated selectors' V/A compiled by jazz expert and BBE label owner Paul Murphy. Following the success of the original comp first released in 2019, this one comes up after a full four years' worth of curating and mulling, and aims to represent the full range of both classic and contemporary jazz sounds, from New Orleans to Latin jazz, in quick succession. Consisting of contemporary jazz versions of the likes of Fela Kuti, Raul Monsalve and, for some reason, The Human League, said contributions by the likes of Cruisic and Clare Fischer aim to trace the - yes, the - comprehensive throughline of jazz from past to present, all while refusing to abstain from BBE's trademark eclecticism. Highlights include 'Rebel No. 23' and Fast 3's Hammond-organ-injected 'Don't You Want Me'. Most importantly, no track goes without a driving, bright-bursting mood of energy.
Tracklist:
Side 1
1. Eternal Buzz Brass Band - "Sounds Good" (6:40)
2. Cesar's Salad - "Manteca" (6:50)
3. Chip Wickham - "Rebel No 23" (7" edit) (3:58)
Side 2
1. The Stance Brothers - "Roll Call" (3:56)
2. Cruisic - "Jazz Carnival" (4:39)
3. Daniel Crawford - "Water No Get Enemy" (5:38)
4. Los Po-Boy-Citos - "Fried Neckbones & Some Home Fries" (4:50)
Side 3
1. Raul Monsalve Y Los Forajidos - "Black & Decker" (4:50)
2. Clare Fischer - "African Flutes" (8:12)
3. Cheick Tidiane Seck - "Niger Mambo" (8:00)
Side 4
1. Florian Pellissier Quintet - "The Hipster" (5:30)
2. Take Vibe - "Golden Brown" (3:09)
3. Fast 3 - "Don't You Want Me?" (8:27) More
Tracklist:
Side 1
1. Eternal Buzz Brass Band - "Sounds Good" (6:40)
2. Cesar's Salad - "Manteca" (6:50)
3. Chip Wickham - "Rebel No 23" (7" edit) (3:58)
Side 2
1. The Stance Brothers - "Roll Call" (3:56)
2. Cruisic - "Jazz Carnival" (4:39)
3. Daniel Crawford - "Water No Get Enemy" (5:38)
4. Los Po-Boy-Citos - "Fried Neckbones & Some Home Fries" (4:50)
Side 3
1. Raul Monsalve Y Los Forajidos - "Black & Decker" (4:50)
2. Clare Fischer - "African Flutes" (8:12)
3. Cheick Tidiane Seck - "Niger Mambo" (8:00)
Side 4
1. Florian Pellissier Quintet - "The Hipster" (5:30)
2. Take Vibe - "Golden Brown" (3:09)
3. Fast 3 - "Don't You Want Me?" (8:27) More
Mount Kimbie’s fourth studio album, The Sunset Violent, is seeded in the wake of 2017’s Love What Survives and marks an important full circle moment for the group as they return to a band-like setup (Dominic Maker, Kai Campos, Andrea Balency-Béarn and Marc Pell).
The Sunset Violent was made under the empty sky of the American desert, where Kai and Dominic relocated to for a month. A town with little to offer but a couple of saloons, a basin with a history of alleged UFO sightings and a selection of local country radio stations ends up birthing a new Mount Kimbie record that harks back to a time where the guitar lead the way through the band’s sonic tapestry.
On The Sunset Violent, an album that marks fifteen years of Mount Kimbie, it’s clear that their creative spark is by no means at an end.
- Specs Black 1LP Vinyl in printed inner sleeve in 3mm spine sleeve and download code
Tracklist:
A1. The Trail
A2. Dumb Guitar
A3. Shipwreck
A4. Boxing (Feat. King Krule)
A5. Got Me
B1. A Figure In The Surf
B2. Fishbrain
B3. Yukka Tree
B4. Empty And Silent (Feat. King Krule) More
The Sunset Violent was made under the empty sky of the American desert, where Kai and Dominic relocated to for a month. A town with little to offer but a couple of saloons, a basin with a history of alleged UFO sightings and a selection of local country radio stations ends up birthing a new Mount Kimbie record that harks back to a time where the guitar lead the way through the band’s sonic tapestry.
On The Sunset Violent, an album that marks fifteen years of Mount Kimbie, it’s clear that their creative spark is by no means at an end.
- Specs Black 1LP Vinyl in printed inner sleeve in 3mm spine sleeve and download code
Tracklist:
A1. The Trail
A2. Dumb Guitar
A3. Shipwreck
A4. Boxing (Feat. King Krule)
A5. Got Me
B1. A Figure In The Surf
B2. Fishbrain
B3. Yukka Tree
B4. Empty And Silent (Feat. King Krule) More
The Original Soundtrack of ZBIGNIEW PREISNER /KIESLOWSKI / LA DOUBLE VIE DE VERONIQUE - THE DOUBLE LIFE OF VERONIKA in a collectors edition CD Digipack
1 Weronika 2 Véronique 3 Tu Viendras 4 L' Enfance 5 Van Den Budenmayer 6 Véronique 7 Solitude 8 Les Marionnettes 9 Thème : 1re Ttranscription 10 L' Enfance II 11 Alexandre 12 Alexandre II 13 Thème : 2e Transcription 14 Concerto En Mi (Instrumentation Contemporaine N° 1) 15 Concerto En Mi (Instrumentation Contemporaine N° 2) 16 Concerto En Mi (Instrumentation Contemporaine N° 3) 17 Van Den Budenmayer 18 Générique De Fin More
1 Weronika 2 Véronique 3 Tu Viendras 4 L' Enfance 5 Van Den Budenmayer 6 Véronique 7 Solitude 8 Les Marionnettes 9 Thème : 1re Ttranscription 10 L' Enfance II 11 Alexandre 12 Alexandre II 13 Thème : 2e Transcription 14 Concerto En Mi (Instrumentation Contemporaine N° 1) 15 Concerto En Mi (Instrumentation Contemporaine N° 2) 16 Concerto En Mi (Instrumentation Contemporaine N° 3) 17 Van Den Budenmayer 18 Générique De Fin More
1
Fisher - Cosmic Blues
2
Fisher - Do You Like It
3
Fisher - I'll Be Good To You
4
Fisher - Give Me Lend Me Loan Me Let Me Have
5
Fisher - Energy
6
Fisher - Good Old Days
7
Fisher - The Sunrise
8
Fisher - Music Makes Me Feel Good
DELUXE HARD-CARDBOARD SLEEVE COVER + 180g VINYL + OBI
A rare album, “Fisher” was originally released on the Nentu label in 1976.
Think Grant Green meets Eddie Hazel.
This LP has it all: gorgeous Soul Jazz, wahed-out fuzz Rock, dirty, head-nodding Funk Rhythms.
It's a monster psychedelic soul-funk instrumental album. This is less jazzy than the “Third Cup” and “The Next One Hundred Years”, released by Chicago’s Cadet label and more cosmic psych funk across both sides and gets super exploratory and trippy.
More
A rare album, “Fisher” was originally released on the Nentu label in 1976.
Think Grant Green meets Eddie Hazel.
This LP has it all: gorgeous Soul Jazz, wahed-out fuzz Rock, dirty, head-nodding Funk Rhythms.
It's a monster psychedelic soul-funk instrumental album. This is less jazzy than the “Third Cup” and “The Next One Hundred Years”, released by Chicago’s Cadet label and more cosmic psych funk across both sides and gets super exploratory and trippy.
More
1
E. Live - A1. Soft Approach
2
E. Live - A2. Wet Summer
3
E. Live - A3. Make Me Move
4
E. Live - A4. North Star
5
E. Live - B1. Bossa Banger
6
E. Live - B2. Hidden Oasis
7
E. Live - B3. Night Raid
8
E. Live - B4. Desert Caravan
E. LIVE returns to STAR CREATURE with yet another Boogie Blast Off, this time of the Jazz-Funk variety, marking his third full-length release with the esteemed Chicago label. The much-anticipated album is set to make seismic waves in 2024. With a nu-school approach leaning towards the jazzier realms of disco, E. LIVE masterfully maintains an unwavering dance floor allure. The album is a brilliant fusion of accessible and sophisticated sounds, creating an enchanting sonic landscape that seamlessly bridges disco and jazz elements. Genius Level production for a solo studio act. Highly recommended for fans of musical luminaries such as ROY AYERS, PATRICE RUSHEN, KHRUANGBIN, FKJ, and TORO Y MOI, etc...8 tracks & full picture sleeve.
More
1
Florence Adooni & Erobique - Mam Tola (feat. Florence Adooni)
2
Florence Adooni & Erobique - Bach in Afrika
German artist Erobique, known for his improvisational spirit and irresistible disco anthems, visited drummer and producer Max Weissenfeldt in his Ghana-based Joy Sound Studios. Erobique immediately teamed up with the local musicians to cut some tracks. Together with Philophon artist Florence Adooni, he created the catchy tune "Mam Tola", which Florence sings in her mother tongue Frafra. The swaying and swinging outcome is an example par excellence of Afro Soul. On "Bach in Afrika" you hear Erobique how he converts some deep down Kumasi-style drum and bass jam into a frenetic Baroque ceremony by masterfully operating the Hammond "Extra Voice" with some reminiscence of J.S. Bach.
More
1
A Vision Of Panorama - A1.Fusion To Illusion
2
A Vision Of Panorama - A2. Piano Sunset
3
A Vision Of Panorama - A3. Imagery
4
A Vision Of Panorama - A4. Blue Water
5
A Vision Of Panorama - B1. Lost In Palms
6
A Vision Of Panorama - B2. The Crossing
7
A Vision Of Panorama - B3. Sensitive
8
A Vision Of Panorama - B4. Outro
Reprees, No Picture Sleeve.
For those seeking a musical experience reminiscent of the iconic LARRY HEARD, RON TRENT & KERRI CHANDLER, delving into the enchanting sounds of A VISION OF PANORAMA is a journey well worth taking. A VISION OF PANORAMA, much like MR. FINGERS, has mastered the art of crafting immersive and soulful electronic compositions. This latest release invites you into a sonic realm where lush melodies, dreamy textures, and intricate rhythms coalesce to create an atmosphere of pure musical bliss. In a landscape where electronic music continually evolves, A VISION OF PANORAMA stands out as an artist who skillfully pays homage to the timeless vibes of classic deep house while adding a contemporary touches of forward thinking smooth and Balearic jazz. The fusion of classic house elements with a futuristic flair makes A Vision Of Panorama the closest thing available to the legends that precede. More
For those seeking a musical experience reminiscent of the iconic LARRY HEARD, RON TRENT & KERRI CHANDLER, delving into the enchanting sounds of A VISION OF PANORAMA is a journey well worth taking. A VISION OF PANORAMA, much like MR. FINGERS, has mastered the art of crafting immersive and soulful electronic compositions. This latest release invites you into a sonic realm where lush melodies, dreamy textures, and intricate rhythms coalesce to create an atmosphere of pure musical bliss. In a landscape where electronic music continually evolves, A VISION OF PANORAMA stands out as an artist who skillfully pays homage to the timeless vibes of classic deep house while adding a contemporary touches of forward thinking smooth and Balearic jazz. The fusion of classic house elements with a futuristic flair makes A Vision Of Panorama the closest thing available to the legends that precede. More
Label:Be With Records
Cat-No:bewith166lp
Release-Date:22.03.2024
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:2LP Excl
Label:Be With Records
Cat-No:bewith166lp
Release-Date:22.03.2024
Genre:HipHop/Rap/Urban
Configuration:2LP Excl
1
Bahamadia - Intro (0:50)
2
Bahamadia - WordPlay (3:17)
3
Bahamadia - Spontaneity (4:08)
4
Bahamadia - Rugged Ruff (3:08)
5
Bahamadia - Interlude (0:29)
6
Bahamadia - I Confess (4:06)
7
Bahamadia - UKNOWHOWWEDU (3:35)
8
Bahamadia - Interlude (1:09)
9
Bahamadia - Total Wreck (3:26)
10
Bahamadia - Innovation (3:23)
11
Bahamadia - Da Jawn (5:19)
12
Bahamadia - Interlude (1:05)
13
Bahamadia - True Honey Buns (Dat Freak Sh t) (3:41)
14
Bahamadia - 3 Tha Hard Way (4:12)
15
Bahamadia - Biggest Part Of Me (4:51)
16
Bahamadia - Path To Rhythm (3:24)
Territories: Worldwide no restrictions
Format Notes:
2024 first time double vinyl reissue with exclusive bonus track, 140g double vinyl, remastered audio with restored artwork
Track List:
A1 Intro 0:50
A2 WordPlay 3:17
A3 Spontaneity 4:08
A4 Rugged Ruff 3:08
A5 Interlude 0:29
B1 I Confess 4:06
B2 UKNOWHOWWEDU 3:35
B3 Interlude 1:09
B4 Total Wreck 3:26
B5 Innovation 3:23
C1 Da Jawn 5:19
C2 Interlude 1:05
C3 True Honey Buns (Dat Freak Sh*t) 3:41
D1 3 Tha Hard Way 4:12
D2 Biggest Part Of Me 4:51
D3 Path To Rhythm 3:24
Release Notes:
Bahamadia’s 1996 debut album Kollage is rightly regarded as one of the greatest rap albums of the 1990s. For the first time ever, Be With present the definitive double LP version of this eternal hip-hop classic, including the legendary "Path To Rhythm" which never appeared on the original LP or on vinyl, anywhere. An indelible VIBE from start-to-finish, Kollage presents Bahamadia's swirling rhymes delivered with an irresistibly butter flow and razor-sharp assuredness over a steady slew of smoothed-out, jazzed-up, blunted beats. Achingly cool and effortlessly funky throughout, it's an absolute must for true 90s hip-hop fanatics.
The entire Kollage project was recorded at D&D Studios and the ties to Gang Starr are keenly felt, with DJ Premier producing five tracks in addition to the killer songs Guru had already produced with her. Working with the cream of the mid-90s East Coast sound, Kollage is, accordingly, a record that demonstrates a varied musical taste with disparate influences, as Bahamadia has previously stated: “The title Kollage was a reflection of my state of mind. I first got interested in music from playing my parents’ and grandparents’ records, as well what I heard on the radio. I wanted Kollage to reflect that diversity both lyrically and sonically."
With intelligent, poetic lyricism and a laconic verbal style bursting with both warm texture and deceptive energy, Bahamadia’s flow was as inspired by Aretha and Nancy Wilson as it was Q-Tip, Schoolly D and Lady B. Swaggering out the gate, "WordPlay" finds Bahamadia confidently showcasing her considerable old-school battle-rhyme skills over a Guru beat that utilises an infectiously bouncy bassline with splashes of sultry jazz horns and a Jeru vocal snatch for the hook. Up next, the quietly shimmering and ruggedly beautiful "Spontaneity" is one of the most alluring on the record, Da Beatminerz crafting a brilliantly soulful and jazzy soundscape for Bahamadia's effortless vocals to float across. It's followed by "Rugged Ruff", where the rapper carefully constructs a swift off-beat flow over Premier's raw jazzy fire.
With smooth spacey synth vibes overseen by former Geto Boys producer N.O. Joe, "I Confess" is, without question, a fly love song and soothing (p)-funk groove. "UKNOWHOWWEDU" is an airy, chilled tribute to her hometown. Produced by Ski Beatz & DJ Redhanded, it rides a gloriously mellow break. It's a true Philly anthem, shouting out a who’s who of the entire city’s scene. Early banger "Total Wreck" follows, presenting a murky Guru instrumental elevated by jazzy horns. Bahamadia invokes the title's suggestion, firing her brilliant bars more aggressively than we’re accustomed to. More Beatminerz-brilliance comes in the way of "Innovation", an opportunity for the MC to invoke Freestyle Fellowship in her forward-thinking and literary verses. "Da Jawn" features hometown buddies The Roots, with Black Thought gliding into a back-and-forth with Bahamadia over ?uestlove’s warm, snapping percussion. With the strut club banger "True Honey Buns (Dat Freak Sh*t)", DJ Premier provides some laidback vibrant boom bap for Bahamadia to share a wild, cautionary tale about a night out with her girl, Kia.
Fan favourite "3 Tha Hard Way" is a hypnotically sinister cut, with Bahamadia, K-Swift and Mecca Star taking star turns to coast over DJ Premier’s raw beat whilst the tender "Biggest Part Of Me" is a heartfelt stunner dedicated to her son. Incredibly, only the European and Japanese CD versions of Kollage was released with the brilliantly breezy “Path To Rhythm”, featuring Ursula Rucker. Whilst ostensibly a "bonus track", it's anything but, to our ears. Very much in sonic conversation with KRS-One's stretched-out sleeper classic "Higher Level", it's absolutely essential so we had to include it, appearing on wax for the first time here, exclusively. Quite a coup.
Somewhat predictably, whilst Kollage was released to significant critical acclaim, it suffered from disappointing sales. In the intervening years - and for far too long - it was a criminally underrated record, an increasingly hidden gem. We hope this double LP reissue - which looks and sounds amazing - will go some way to correct this. This 2024 Be With double LP re-issue has been mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis, cut by Cicely Balston and pressed at Record Industry. It's too bold and beautiful to remain overlooked and underserved.
More
Format Notes:
2024 first time double vinyl reissue with exclusive bonus track, 140g double vinyl, remastered audio with restored artwork
Track List:
A1 Intro 0:50
A2 WordPlay 3:17
A3 Spontaneity 4:08
A4 Rugged Ruff 3:08
A5 Interlude 0:29
B1 I Confess 4:06
B2 UKNOWHOWWEDU 3:35
B3 Interlude 1:09
B4 Total Wreck 3:26
B5 Innovation 3:23
C1 Da Jawn 5:19
C2 Interlude 1:05
C3 True Honey Buns (Dat Freak Sh*t) 3:41
D1 3 Tha Hard Way 4:12
D2 Biggest Part Of Me 4:51
D3 Path To Rhythm 3:24
Release Notes:
Bahamadia’s 1996 debut album Kollage is rightly regarded as one of the greatest rap albums of the 1990s. For the first time ever, Be With present the definitive double LP version of this eternal hip-hop classic, including the legendary "Path To Rhythm" which never appeared on the original LP or on vinyl, anywhere. An indelible VIBE from start-to-finish, Kollage presents Bahamadia's swirling rhymes delivered with an irresistibly butter flow and razor-sharp assuredness over a steady slew of smoothed-out, jazzed-up, blunted beats. Achingly cool and effortlessly funky throughout, it's an absolute must for true 90s hip-hop fanatics.
The entire Kollage project was recorded at D&D Studios and the ties to Gang Starr are keenly felt, with DJ Premier producing five tracks in addition to the killer songs Guru had already produced with her. Working with the cream of the mid-90s East Coast sound, Kollage is, accordingly, a record that demonstrates a varied musical taste with disparate influences, as Bahamadia has previously stated: “The title Kollage was a reflection of my state of mind. I first got interested in music from playing my parents’ and grandparents’ records, as well what I heard on the radio. I wanted Kollage to reflect that diversity both lyrically and sonically."
With intelligent, poetic lyricism and a laconic verbal style bursting with both warm texture and deceptive energy, Bahamadia’s flow was as inspired by Aretha and Nancy Wilson as it was Q-Tip, Schoolly D and Lady B. Swaggering out the gate, "WordPlay" finds Bahamadia confidently showcasing her considerable old-school battle-rhyme skills over a Guru beat that utilises an infectiously bouncy bassline with splashes of sultry jazz horns and a Jeru vocal snatch for the hook. Up next, the quietly shimmering and ruggedly beautiful "Spontaneity" is one of the most alluring on the record, Da Beatminerz crafting a brilliantly soulful and jazzy soundscape for Bahamadia's effortless vocals to float across. It's followed by "Rugged Ruff", where the rapper carefully constructs a swift off-beat flow over Premier's raw jazzy fire.
With smooth spacey synth vibes overseen by former Geto Boys producer N.O. Joe, "I Confess" is, without question, a fly love song and soothing (p)-funk groove. "UKNOWHOWWEDU" is an airy, chilled tribute to her hometown. Produced by Ski Beatz & DJ Redhanded, it rides a gloriously mellow break. It's a true Philly anthem, shouting out a who’s who of the entire city’s scene. Early banger "Total Wreck" follows, presenting a murky Guru instrumental elevated by jazzy horns. Bahamadia invokes the title's suggestion, firing her brilliant bars more aggressively than we’re accustomed to. More Beatminerz-brilliance comes in the way of "Innovation", an opportunity for the MC to invoke Freestyle Fellowship in her forward-thinking and literary verses. "Da Jawn" features hometown buddies The Roots, with Black Thought gliding into a back-and-forth with Bahamadia over ?uestlove’s warm, snapping percussion. With the strut club banger "True Honey Buns (Dat Freak Sh*t)", DJ Premier provides some laidback vibrant boom bap for Bahamadia to share a wild, cautionary tale about a night out with her girl, Kia.
Fan favourite "3 Tha Hard Way" is a hypnotically sinister cut, with Bahamadia, K-Swift and Mecca Star taking star turns to coast over DJ Premier’s raw beat whilst the tender "Biggest Part Of Me" is a heartfelt stunner dedicated to her son. Incredibly, only the European and Japanese CD versions of Kollage was released with the brilliantly breezy “Path To Rhythm”, featuring Ursula Rucker. Whilst ostensibly a "bonus track", it's anything but, to our ears. Very much in sonic conversation with KRS-One's stretched-out sleeper classic "Higher Level", it's absolutely essential so we had to include it, appearing on wax for the first time here, exclusively. Quite a coup.
Somewhat predictably, whilst Kollage was released to significant critical acclaim, it suffered from disappointing sales. In the intervening years - and for far too long - it was a criminally underrated record, an increasingly hidden gem. We hope this double LP reissue - which looks and sounds amazing - will go some way to correct this. This 2024 Be With double LP re-issue has been mastered for vinyl by Simon Francis, cut by Cicely Balston and pressed at Record Industry. It's too bold and beautiful to remain overlooked and underserved.
More
1
Hotline - Fellas Doing It In Lago
2
Peter Abdul - Don't You Know
3
Steve Monite - Only You
4
Oby Onyioha - Enjoy Your Life
5
Kio Amachree - Ivory
6
Livy Ekemezie - Holiday Action
7
Willy Roy - Don't Give Up
8
Danny Offia & The Friks - Funk With Me
9
Rick Asikpo & Afro Fusion - Too Hot
10
Toby Foyeh - Ore Mi
11
Gboyega Adelaja - Colourful Environment
12
Mike Umoh - Shake Your Body
13
Brnis Moleme - Where Is The Answer
14
Sony Enang - Don't Stock That Music
15
Nkono Teles - Be My Lady
16
Veno - Groove I Like
17
Godfrey Odili - Let's Do More Music
18
Terry Mackson - Distant Lover
19
Ofege - Bruning Jungle
20
Lexy Mella - On The Air
REPRESS!! 3LP+7"
You like African disco/boogie? Then this comp. is for you.. No need to drop crazy amounts of cash on the originals. This one holds winners only!
More
You like African disco/boogie? Then this comp. is for you.. No need to drop crazy amounts of cash on the originals. This one holds winners only!
More
1
Skee Mask - Cerroverb
2
Skee Mask - Session Add
3
Skee Mask - Rev8617
4
Skee Mask - 50 Euro To Break Boost
5
Skee Mask - Via Sub Mids
6
Skee Mask - Soundboy Ext.
7
Skee Mask - Dial 274
8
Skee Mask - VLI
9
Skee Mask - Flyby VFR
10
Skee Mask - Muk FM
11
Skee Mask - Kozmic Flush
12
Skee Mask - Calimance (Delay Mix)
Repress coming soon!
Skee Mask’s endless search and fascination for fresh music, weed and burgers channeled into his own vision of sound. Enjoy the ride through his second album, a detailed experimental universe of a young dedicated hustler.
More
Skee Mask’s endless search and fascination for fresh music, weed and burgers channeled into his own vision of sound. Enjoy the ride through his second album, a detailed experimental universe of a young dedicated hustler.
More